Bolivia Part 2 - 7/28 - 8/6 - Dispatch #12

We just got back to the hotel from climbing to the summit of Huayna Potosi, but with just one of the group made the summit. We left together, but about halfway up the Meanwells got sick and had to turn around. It looks like they might be getting the crud that everyone else had. So Neal and I took our time getting to the summit. Since I didn't have the chance to acclimatize earlier on with the rest of my group, I had to rely on Diamox to help on the way up, but in the end we got to the summit feeling really well.

Climbers descending the ridge on Huayna Potosi

One thing we did differently from the other groups is that all the other teams left at 1 am this morning, but we didn't leave until 4 am because I didn't feel there would be any change in the snow conditions. Everyone else turned around due to high winds, but by the time we got up there the winds had died down and the snow conditions were still fine. We definitely did not regret it, and it was a really good summit day. Looking in to the jungles was just a cloud layer as far as the eye can see, all the way out to the ocean. It stretched past Brazil on one side and on the other side is desert. It was pretty stunning.

Neil on the 45 deg. slopes near the summit

We're going to rest in La Paz today and tomorrow, and then head up another mountain, but not sure yet what the next objective is. We'll talk it over within the group and let you know in the next dispatch. Stay tuned!

Facebook Badge

Warning

Climbing, skiing and mountaineering are dangerous sports. When you undertake an outdoor, backcountry, or an alpine adventure without a guide, you assume total responsibility for your decisions and wellbeing. Conditions in the mountains are constantly changing, and no guidebook or computer web blog can take the place of solid training and experience. Though this site features descriptions of roads, trails, climbing routes, and other natural features, you cannot assume that because something is described here that it has not changed since last observed or that it will be safe for you or your party.

AAI assumes no responsibility or liability for your use of the information presented in this blog. With regard to all backcountry travel and climbing, you must make your own assessments and decisions, and you assume all risks in applying them.